Knitting Ballet by Ana Maria Hernando (video production by The Bridge Studio)
About the Project
Knitting Ballet invites a sweet interruption to commuters’ routine. Developed in collaboration with Dance of the Heart, Hernando coordinated the performance along RTD routes in Boulder. Knitting Ballet was performed during high ridership commute times on two different routes during peak commute. Two dancers rode the bus route, got off at each stop to perform during the wait time, then boarded the next bus to continue along the route. The dancers performed impromptu to the classic tango score, “Gallo Ciego,” by Bardi, interweaving dance and knitting into a non-traditional performance telling the story of two individuals who come together through knitting and music. This performance was designed to deliver a surprise for commuters, providing an unusual momentary respite from daily routines.
Hernando received this commission as an opportunity to push concepts she explores within her traditional studio practice into a public realm. Hernando’s installations and paintings focus on revealing a more full portrayal of women’s lives and experiences. She additionally explores ways individuals can be transformed when they come together, and tailored Knitting Ballet around this notion.
About the Artist
Ana Maria Hernando is a Boulder-based visual artist from Argentina. Her work includes feminine fiber installations that celebrate the lives and community of Latina women. In addition to fiber arts, Hernando also incorporates painting, drawing, printmaking, and bilingual poetry into her art and installations. Hernando’s work has been featured at the Oklahoma Contemporary, Tweed Museum of Art, Marfa Contemporary, MCA Denver and BMoCA. She received her BFA from California College of the Arts in 1990.